Kaniekamp

This show is not what I expected. Being a fan of Star Trek, and seeing so many overlap fans with Battlestar Galactica, I was down for some imaginative, thoughtful sci-fy complete with the bad effects and corniness that inevitably accompanies. The second part was not the case! First, you should know there are no aliens (not technically). Second, the effects, set, costuming, and acting is completely top-notch. Third, it is a bit more complex than you would think. It's closer to Lost in plot than Star Trek or other classic sci-fy. BUT, the complex ethical questions put to the characters and audience stay true to the sci-fy genre. It's a must watch for anyone!

Average when it comes to comedy in relation to sitcoms. But horribly degrading to women. It has a strange dichotomy of a relate-able young female character and rampant sexism by all of the characters. The only redeeming bit is the randomly poignant one liners by the other staff relating to privilege (e.g. the gay asian man responding to the main characters indignation of unfairness with "you're right, life is so hard for pretty blondes." Or when the african american housekeeper says, "this may be the first time the black help wasn't accused first!"). Despite these great one-liners, I couldn't watch past a few episodes because of the weird slut-shame-y aspects and the flagrant disrespectful actions of the male character (hiding her in the closet after sex, against her will, and then forgetting about her for hours) hidden beneath a generally kind/charming exterior. And the main character just takes it and considers it a mark against herself. Overall just weird.

Sense 8 is absolutely one of my favorite new shows. The plot is fast moving and the characters are very rich. Dealing with varying characters around the world, it could be difficult to fall into stereotypes. While not necessarily "defying" tropes, it certainly focuses more on the content of the characters and the message of the show. It has all of the sex and nudity that has come to characterize Netflix shows so be forewarned. The show obviously works VERY hard to be progressive and representative, which while at some points a bit too transparent, is very much appreciated. Also, it passes the Bechdal test with flying colors. Overall, an amazing show and I would highly recommend!

The Last Ship took me by surprise with how good it is. First, I will preface by acknowledging that this show is basically one trope after the next. Cold-hearted Russians, South-American cartel drug-pins, and Arab terrorists all manage to crop up in rapid succession. And the brave-hearted moral American patriots are there every time to kick butt. The stereotyping is a bit excessive. That being said, there is a genuineness running through the core. The plot is very quick moving (which I appreciate) and has near equal parts action and emotion/thinking. Despite the egregious over-simplification of some of the character-types, The Last Ship doesn't dumb down any of the complex ethical questions posed to the characters and the audience. Finally, the show tries pretty hard to include some strong female characters and you may be surprised but it passes the Bechdal test! In summation, I'd highly recommend!